Beyond the Drain: How Recycling UCO Powers a Sustainable Future
Muhammad Imam Taufik • July 25, 2024
Used cooking oil (UCO) often ends up as a drain-clogging, landfill-bound waste product. However, this seemingly insignificant kitchen byproduct has a surprisingly positive impact on the environment when handled responsibly. Recycling used cooking oil presents a valuable opportunity to offset greenhouse gas emissions, protect waterways, and advance a more circular economy.
In this article, we'll delve into the environmental advantages of UCO recycling and explore how the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) system empowers and streamlines responsible recycling practices for a more sustainable future.
Why Recycle Used Cooking Oil?
Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions
When UCO is discarded into landfills, it decomposes anaerobically, producing methane – a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. On the other hand, recycling UCO enables its conversion into biofuels like biodiesel, which have a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional fossil fuels.
Protects Water Systems
Dumping UCO down the drain wreaks havoc on sewer systems. The oil solidifies, creating "fatbergs" that clog pipes and cause wastewater backups. This environmental hazard can lead to costly public works projects and even sewage overflows, contaminating nearby water bodies. Recycling keeps UCO out of the plumbing infrastructure.
Conserves Natural Resources
Producing biofuels from recycled UCO significantly reduces the demand for cultivating virgin oils – such as palm oil or soybean oil, the production of which has been linked to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. By using a waste stream to generate fuel, we minimize the strain on vital natural resources like land and water.
Advances the Circular Economy
Recycling UCO embodies the principles of a circular economy – a system where waste products are transformed into valuable resources. By diverting UCO from landfills and returning it to the supply chain, we extend its useful life and reduce reliance on finite resources.
UCO: A Versatile Renewable Feedstock
The beauty of UCO recycling lies in its versatility. Used cooking oil can be processed into various valuable products, including:
Biodiesel
This is the most common use for recycled UCO. Biodiesel offers a cleaner-burning, renewable alternative to petroleum diesel, lowering greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector.
Renewable Diesel
Also known as "green diesel," this advanced biofuel can be fully compatible with existing diesel engines and infrastructure. It has an even higher emissions reduction potential than biodiesel.
Animal Feed
UCO can be a valuable ingredient in animal feed, especially for poultry and livestock, as a source of energy.
Industrial Products
Recycled UCO can be used to manufacture a range of industrial products like soaps, lubricants, and even cosmetics.
The Role of ISCC Certification
The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) is an internationally recognized certification system that ensures the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of bio-based feedstocks and products. ISCC certification plays a crucial role in driving responsible UCO recycling practices and promoting the transition to a bio-based economy.
Here's how the ISCC system fosters sustainability in the UCO sector:
Traceability
ISCC establishes stringent traceability requirements throughout the entire supply chain, from the collection of UCO to its final use as biofuel or another product. This transparency helps ensure that the UCO is sourced and processed responsibly.
Environmental Standards
ISCC mandates compliance with key environmental criteria, such as greenhouse gas emission reductions, protection of biodiversity, and avoidance of deforestation. Certified companies must demonstrate that their UCO recycling process minimizes environmental harm and produces a net reduction in carbon emissions.
Social Responsibility
ISCC certification upholds social standards, promoting fair labor practices and respect for the rights of local communities. This ensures that UCO recycling benefits not only the environment but society as a whole.
Market Credibility
The ISCC seal of approval provides consumers and businesses with confidence that the bio-based products they purchase are truly sustainable. By choosing ISCC-certified products, buyers support a more responsible and ethical bioeconomy.
Regulatory Compliance
ISCC certification can help companies meet regulatory requirements, particularly those related to renewable fuels and carbon emissions reduction. In many regions, government incentives or mandates are linked to standards like ISCC.
Recycling UCO is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to environmental wellbeing. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting our water resources to conserving resources and promoting sustainability, the benefits are undeniable.
Have questions about ISCC certification for UCO? Get answers on our website or give us a call. See you later, Qualizer!
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The Three Phases of CORSIA Implementation Pilot Phase (2021-2023) The Pilot Phase of CORSIA, spanning from 2021 to 2023, was designed to serve as a testing ground for the scheme. During this phase, participation was voluntary, allowing states to opt-in and gather valuable data on carbon emissions from international flights. This phase played a crucial role in setting the baseline for future offsetting requirements by providing insights into emission levels and the effectiveness of the program. First Phase (2024-2026) Starting on January 1, 2024, CORSIA entered its First Phase. This phase marked the expansion of the scheme, with more states choosing to participate voluntarily. The baseline for offsetting requirements during this phase is set at 85% of 2019 emissions. This means that airlines need to offset any emissions above this baseline by investing in carbon reduction projects or purchasing carbon credits. The First Phase is essential in bridging the gap between the initial testing period and the full implementation of the scheme. Second Phase (2027-2035) The Second Phase of CORSIA, commencing in 2027, is a significant milestone as participation becomes mandatory for all ICAO Contracting States. The inclusion criteria are based on 2018 Revenue Tonne Kilometer (RTK) data, ensuring that countries with higher levels of international aviation activity contribute proportionally to emission reduction efforts. This phase aims to achieve more ambitious emissions reduction targets and reinforces the global commitment to combat climate change. The Importance of ISCC CORSIA The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) plays a critical role in supporting CORSIA. ISCC CORSIA certification ensures that the carbon credits used to offset emissions meet stringent sustainability criteria. Here's how ISCC CORSIA makes a difference: Credibility and Trust : By adhering to rigorous standards, ISCC CORSIA provides assurance that the carbon offsets are genuine, verifiable, and contribute to real emissions reductions. This credibility is vital for gaining the trust of stakeholders, including airlines, governments, and consumers. Sustainability : ISCC CORSIA promotes sustainable practices across the supply chain. This includes ensuring that biofuels and other renewable resources used in aviation are produced in an environmentally responsible manner, thereby supporting the broader goals of sustainability and carbon neutrality. Transparency and Accountability : The certification process involves detailed documentation and auditing, enhancing transparency and accountability. This helps prevent fraudulent activities and ensures that the carbon credits are traceable and legitimate. Global Collaboration : ISCC CORSIA fosters international cooperation by establishing a common framework for sustainability certification. This enables countries and airlines to work together towards a shared goal of reducing aviation's carbon footprint. The Impact on the Aviation Industry CORSIA's implementation has brought about several significant changes in the aviation industry: Increased Accountability : Airlines are now more accountable for their carbon emissions, promoting transparency and encouraging sustainable practices. Innovation in Carbon Reduction : The need to offset emissions has spurred innovation in carbon reduction technologies and practices within the aviation sector. Economic Opportunities : The demand for carbon credits and investment in carbon reduction projects has created economic opportunities in various sectors, including renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. CORSIA is a landmark initiative in the aviation industry's journey towards sustainability. 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Let's face it, these days, businesses can't sweep supply chain traceability under the rug anymore. In many key markets, supply chain traceability isn't optional—it's a legal requirement. Regulators, particularly in countries like in the EU and increasingly elsewhere, are demanding strict transparency. Being able to trace a product right back to its origin has become a non-negotiable condition for doing business within these jurisdictions. That's where ISCC comes in. It provides a standardized framework, recognized by regulatory bodies, for companies to demonstrate they're meeting these mandatory traceability requirements. This is absolutely crucial for maintaining market access. What is Traceability? So, what exactly is traceability? Simply put, it's about being able to track and verify the whole journey of materials and products—the entire supply chain, from beginning to end. This kind of transparency makes sure every step of the production process is checked out and that sustainable practices are actually being used. With ISCC-certified products, this traceability goes even deeper. Every single operator in the supply chain is certified, so you've got complete accountability from start to finish. How ISCC Ensures Traceability ISCC uses different methods to ensure materials meet sustainability standards and are traced correctly throughout the supply chain. These methods vary, but each has its own advantages that support business needs and consumer confidence. Mass Balance The mass balance approach tracks the quantity and characteristics of renewable or biobased materials throughout the value chain. By documenting and balancing inputs and outputs, companies can back up their sustainability claims with proof. This is ideal for companies starting their sustainability journey and those looking for a flexible yet robust system. Controlled Blending In controlled blending, companies account for the renewable content in their final products, especially under ISCC PLUS. This way the sustainability of the materials can be tracked and verified, so companies can meet high standards while being transparent. Perfect for industries transitioning to sustainability and want to keep their environmental promises. Physical Segregation For companies who want the highest level of transparency, physical segregation is the most strict approach. This method ensures that only certified, sustainable materials are used in production, and every step of the process—from storage to transportation—is separate to maintain the integrity of the certified product. Perfect for eco-conscious consumers who want credible sustainability claims. The Value of Traceability along Supply Chains Securing ISCC certification is a strategic imperative for businesses navigating evolving regulatory landscapes. It ensures compliance with increasingly stringent sustainability mandates, particularly in sectors subject to regulations on biofuel production, renewable energy targets, and sustainable sourcing. By achieving ISCC certification, companies proactively mitigate risks associated with non-compliance and demonstrate adherence to industry best practices recognized by regulatory bodies. This not only safeguards market access but also positions businesses to capitalize on emerging opportunities within regulated sustainable markets. For more information about the ISCC, please visit our website or contact us today!
As a result of the increasing problem of plastic pollution in the world, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized the need for a Global Plastics Treaty by announcing the start of the Paris accord-like process with legal instruments to deal with plastic pollution in March 2022 at the resumed fifth UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2). This was approved in 175 countries and it seeks to focus on the entire lifecycle of plastics, from its design to production and disposal. What is the Global Plastic Treaty? The Global Plastic Treaty is a proposal for an international agreement that aims to plan in detail the ways of combating plastic pollution including its manufacture and utilization which ultimately would result in a decrease of global plastic pollution. This project is being set within UNEP and has been actively supported by various coalition of governments, industries and groups working for the environment. Why is the Treaty Necessary? All the economic losses due to pollution caused by plastics are equally huge, the loss of billions of dollars each year owing to its effects on fisheries, tourism and the well being of people. In addition to this, the sickening image keeps the use and burning of plastics contributes and accentuates the emission of greenhouse gases. Taking into attention the size of these challenges, global production of plastics is likely to double by 2040 , if the current trends remain unabated. These multifarious issues are targeted by the three pillars of the Global Plastic Treaty through an all-inclusive legal approach, which are: Principle 1: Understanding Plastics as Carbon and Chemicals; Principle 2: Addressing the Harmful Health Effects from Chemicals in Plastics; Principle 3: Recognizing that Toxic Chemicals Make Plastics Incompatible with a Circular Economy. 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Just Transition : The Treaty advocates a “Just Transition” for informal waste pickers with a focus on ending poverty through safeguarding the resource sector along with livelihoods for that sector in more economically developed industries. Global Cooperation : The Treaty underscores the need for developed countries to lend a helping hand in the reduction of plastic usage in developing countries by providing financial and technological support to achieve set goals. Environmental and Health Protection : Finally, the Treaty highlights the importance of being able to take legal action against irregularities in plastic supply chains as that will help in reducing the negative impact on health as well as the production of micro and nanoplastics that leak into water bodies. It also mentions the issue of impact of plastics in the climate change context and seeks to move towards a paradigm shift that would decrease the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the life cycle of plastics. Progress and Challenges This treaty has advanced towards its objectives since its inception. In 2013 negotiations started in a more organized fashion when an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) was formed for the purpose of drafting the Treaty in 2024. During these negotiations, various stakeholders including industry, academia and civil society representatives have been engaged in discussions to ensure balance and inclusiveness. However, challenges remain. Enhanced expectations of the developed countries, related to funding, technology transfer and historical pollution responsibility have made negotiations intractable. Moreover, plastic-dependent industries have raised alarm bells on the negative economic ramifications that enacting strict regulations would have. Plastic Pollution Reduction Standard (PPRS) One of the key components which supports the Global Plastic Treaty is the Plastic Pollution Reduction Standard (PPRS) of PCX Solutions. 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For more information on the PPRS, check out our website or give us a call !
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Processor : Any organization that receives, treats, or transforms post-consumer plastic waste into other useful forms through material or energy recovery (End-of-Waste). Verification and Validation Body (VVB) : A third-party organization, independent from PCX Solutions and the Project Partner, which has been accredited by PCX Solutions to conduct validation and verification of Projects for the purpose of assessing conformance with the PPRS. PCX Solutions also engages a VVB to verify the credits pre-issuance. The VVB engaged to conduct impact verification is referred to as the "Impact Verification Auditor." Plastic Credit Buyer : A person, organization, or company involved in plastic pollution reduction, avoidance, and/ or liability (i.e. by purchasing plastic credits). The Process of Plastic Credit Issuance The PPRS plastic credit system is based on a highly detailed and transparent issuance process: 1. Collection and Processing of Plastic Waste The journey starts at the collection and processing of plastic waste. The project partners at this stage must take due care that the waste being handled conforms to the requirements of the PPRS. 2. Submission of Chain of Custody Documents The project partner, after collection, needs to send in detailed chain of custody documents to the PPRS Registry. These chain of custody documents shall contain: Control numbers or document IDs Quantities being claimed and weighing equipment identifiers Name of the entity issuing the certification/document Names and signatures of the parties involved Type of inputs (feedstock type—i.e. flexibles, rigids, PET, LDPE, etc.) Output descriptions and destination The stakeholders involved (i.e. received from and transferred to) Date of issuance of the record Dates of receipt of feedstock/collection and pre-processing and completion of End-of-Waste processing 3. 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International aviation plays a crucial role in our interconnected world, but it comes at a significant environmental cost. The industry is responsible for approximately 900 million metric tons of CO2, accounting for about 2.5% of global carbon dioxide emissions, a figure that is projected to grow significantly in the coming decades. Recognizing this pressing challenge, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) established the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) in 2016. How CORSIA Works CORSIA operates on a straightforward principle: airlines are required to offset their carbon emissions by investing in approved carbon reduction projects. These projects can range from renewable energy initiatives to reforestation efforts, all aimed at reducing or removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. The offsetting mechanism ensures that the aviation industry's growth does not come at the expense of the environment. The Three Phases of CORSIA Implementation Pilot Phase (2021-2023) The Pilot Phase of CORSIA, spanning from 2021 to 2023, was designed to serve as a testing ground for the scheme. During this phase, participation was voluntary, allowing states to opt-in and gather valuable data on carbon emissions from international flights. This phase played a crucial role in setting the baseline for future offsetting requirements by providing insights into emission levels and the effectiveness of the program. First Phase (2024-2026) Starting on January 1, 2024, CORSIA entered its First Phase. This phase marked the expansion of the scheme, with more states choosing to participate voluntarily. The baseline for offsetting requirements during this phase is set at 85% of 2019 emissions. This means that airlines need to offset any emissions above this baseline by investing in carbon reduction projects or purchasing carbon credits. The First Phase is essential in bridging the gap between the initial testing period and the full implementation of the scheme. Second Phase (2027-2035) The Second Phase of CORSIA, commencing in 2027, is a significant milestone as participation becomes mandatory for all ICAO Contracting States. The inclusion criteria are based on 2018 Revenue Tonne Kilometer (RTK) data, ensuring that countries with higher levels of international aviation activity contribute proportionally to emission reduction efforts. This phase aims to achieve more ambitious emissions reduction targets and reinforces the global commitment to combat climate change. The Importance of ISCC CORSIA The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) plays a critical role in supporting CORSIA. ISCC CORSIA certification ensures that the carbon credits used to offset emissions meet stringent sustainability criteria. Here's how ISCC CORSIA makes a difference: Credibility and Trust : By adhering to rigorous standards, ISCC CORSIA provides assurance that the carbon offsets are genuine, verifiable, and contribute to real emissions reductions. This credibility is vital for gaining the trust of stakeholders, including airlines, governments, and consumers. Sustainability : ISCC CORSIA promotes sustainable practices across the supply chain. This includes ensuring that biofuels and other renewable resources used in aviation are produced in an environmentally responsible manner, thereby supporting the broader goals of sustainability and carbon neutrality. Transparency and Accountability : The certification process involves detailed documentation and auditing, enhancing transparency and accountability. This helps prevent fraudulent activities and ensures that the carbon credits are traceable and legitimate. Global Collaboration : ISCC CORSIA fosters international cooperation by establishing a common framework for sustainability certification. This enables countries and airlines to work together towards a shared goal of reducing aviation's carbon footprint. The Impact on the Aviation Industry CORSIA's implementation has brought about several significant changes in the aviation industry: Increased Accountability : Airlines are now more accountable for their carbon emissions, promoting transparency and encouraging sustainable practices. Innovation in Carbon Reduction : The need to offset emissions has spurred innovation in carbon reduction technologies and practices within the aviation sector. Economic Opportunities : The demand for carbon credits and investment in carbon reduction projects has created economic opportunities in various sectors, including renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. CORSIA is a landmark initiative in the aviation industry's journey towards sustainability. By addressing carbon emissions through a phased approach, it lays the groundwork for long-term environmental stewardship. The support of ISCC CORSIA is indispensable in this effort, providing the necessary certification and credibility to ensure that carbon offsetting is both effective and trustworthy. For more information about the ISCC CORSIA, please visit our website or contact us today!
Let's face it, these days, businesses can't sweep supply chain traceability under the rug anymore. In many key markets, supply chain traceability isn't optional—it's a legal requirement. Regulators, particularly in countries like in the EU and increasingly elsewhere, are demanding strict transparency. Being able to trace a product right back to its origin has become a non-negotiable condition for doing business within these jurisdictions. That's where ISCC comes in. It provides a standardized framework, recognized by regulatory bodies, for companies to demonstrate they're meeting these mandatory traceability requirements. This is absolutely crucial for maintaining market access. What is Traceability? So, what exactly is traceability? Simply put, it's about being able to track and verify the whole journey of materials and products—the entire supply chain, from beginning to end. This kind of transparency makes sure every step of the production process is checked out and that sustainable practices are actually being used. With ISCC-certified products, this traceability goes even deeper. Every single operator in the supply chain is certified, so you've got complete accountability from start to finish. How ISCC Ensures Traceability ISCC uses different methods to ensure materials meet sustainability standards and are traced correctly throughout the supply chain. These methods vary, but each has its own advantages that support business needs and consumer confidence. Mass Balance The mass balance approach tracks the quantity and characteristics of renewable or biobased materials throughout the value chain. By documenting and balancing inputs and outputs, companies can back up their sustainability claims with proof. This is ideal for companies starting their sustainability journey and those looking for a flexible yet robust system. Controlled Blending In controlled blending, companies account for the renewable content in their final products, especially under ISCC PLUS. This way the sustainability of the materials can be tracked and verified, so companies can meet high standards while being transparent. Perfect for industries transitioning to sustainability and want to keep their environmental promises. Physical Segregation For companies who want the highest level of transparency, physical segregation is the most strict approach. This method ensures that only certified, sustainable materials are used in production, and every step of the process—from storage to transportation—is separate to maintain the integrity of the certified product. Perfect for eco-conscious consumers who want credible sustainability claims. The Value of Traceability along Supply Chains Securing ISCC certification is a strategic imperative for businesses navigating evolving regulatory landscapes. It ensures compliance with increasingly stringent sustainability mandates, particularly in sectors subject to regulations on biofuel production, renewable energy targets, and sustainable sourcing. By achieving ISCC certification, companies proactively mitigate risks associated with non-compliance and demonstrate adherence to industry best practices recognized by regulatory bodies. This not only safeguards market access but also positions businesses to capitalize on emerging opportunities within regulated sustainable markets. For more information about the ISCC, please visit our website or contact us today!
As a result of the increasing problem of plastic pollution in the world, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized the need for a Global Plastics Treaty by announcing the start of the Paris accord-like process with legal instruments to deal with plastic pollution in March 2022 at the resumed fifth UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2). This was approved in 175 countries and it seeks to focus on the entire lifecycle of plastics, from its design to production and disposal. What is the Global Plastic Treaty? The Global Plastic Treaty is a proposal for an international agreement that aims to plan in detail the ways of combating plastic pollution including its manufacture and utilization which ultimately would result in a decrease of global plastic pollution. This project is being set within UNEP and has been actively supported by various coalition of governments, industries and groups working for the environment. Why is the Treaty Necessary? All the economic losses due to pollution caused by plastics are equally huge, the loss of billions of dollars each year owing to its effects on fisheries, tourism and the well being of people. In addition to this, the sickening image keeps the use and burning of plastics contributes and accentuates the emission of greenhouse gases. Taking into attention the size of these challenges, global production of plastics is likely to double by 2040 , if the current trends remain unabated. These multifarious issues are targeted by the three pillars of the Global Plastic Treaty through an all-inclusive legal approach, which are: Principle 1: Understanding Plastics as Carbon and Chemicals; Principle 2: Addressing the Harmful Health Effects from Chemicals in Plastics; Principle 3: Recognizing that Toxic Chemicals Make Plastics Incompatible with a Circular Economy. Key Aspects of the Global Plastics Treaty Lifecycle Approach : The Treaty seeks to reduce plastic pollution and plastic usage through measures such as eliminating the need for single use plastic, increasing the safe and viable options available, ensuring responsible production and consumption, modifying recycling approaches, and managing wastage of plastic by targeting pollution at every stage of plastic’s life cycle. Binding Targets : The Treaty suggests legally enforceable initiatives to reduce plastic usage which include specific targets for recycling as well as the percentage of plastic in consumer goods which has been recycled. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR ): The Treaty supports abandoning End of Product Life policies owned by the producers as it introduces a new concept of Environmental Pollution Responsibility (EPR) that pushes the manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to be responsible in controlling wastes created after the sale of their products. Just Transition : The Treaty advocates a “Just Transition” for informal waste pickers with a focus on ending poverty through safeguarding the resource sector along with livelihoods for that sector in more economically developed industries. Global Cooperation : The Treaty underscores the need for developed countries to lend a helping hand in the reduction of plastic usage in developing countries by providing financial and technological support to achieve set goals. Environmental and Health Protection : Finally, the Treaty highlights the importance of being able to take legal action against irregularities in plastic supply chains as that will help in reducing the negative impact on health as well as the production of micro and nanoplastics that leak into water bodies. It also mentions the issue of impact of plastics in the climate change context and seeks to move towards a paradigm shift that would decrease the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the life cycle of plastics. Progress and Challenges This treaty has advanced towards its objectives since its inception. In 2013 negotiations started in a more organized fashion when an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) was formed for the purpose of drafting the Treaty in 2024. During these negotiations, various stakeholders including industry, academia and civil society representatives have been engaged in discussions to ensure balance and inclusiveness. However, challenges remain. Enhanced expectations of the developed countries, related to funding, technology transfer and historical pollution responsibility have made negotiations intractable. Moreover, plastic-dependent industries have raised alarm bells on the negative economic ramifications that enacting strict regulations would have. Plastic Pollution Reduction Standard (PPRS) One of the key components which supports the Global Plastic Treaty is the Plastic Pollution Reduction Standard (PPRS) of PCX Solutions. The PPRS offers a distinct and attainable framework which provides guidelines for plastic offsetting programs. It defines controllable conditions which must be emphasized including stringent environmental and social impact policies, and the availability of a mechanism to monitor performance and provide accountability with full disclosure of all information. Furthermore, the PPRS-registered Projects can generate one plastic credit for every metric ton (MT) of post-consumer plastic waste that has documented collection and End-of-Waste processing. Credits can only be generated within the validated scope of the project as approved by its VVB. The Global Plastic Treaty is an important milestone in protecting the future. It seeks to combat plastic pollution in a unified manner while fostering cooperation among nations to safeguard the earth and protect its environment for future peoples. The success of this Treaty relies on the willingness of all affected countries to work together. For more information on the PPRS, check out our website or give us a call !